Annual Substation Herbicide Treatment

Solicitation 2026-RFP-104 seeks a qualified Vegetation Management Contractor to provide semi-annual bare-earth herbicide treatments for approximately 55 acres across Lakeland Electric substations and related areas in Florida. The objective is to maintain safe, aesthetically pleasing facilities for the rate-paying public. The resulting contract will be firm from the issuance of a purchase order through September 30, 2027, with an option for four additional one-year renewals upon mutual consent. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the OpenGov portal, with a primary response deadline of September 28, 2026. Award decisions will be based on a total score of 100 points, evaluating cost, experience, equipment availability, and the length of time the vendor has operated in central Florida. Selected contractors must adhere to strict safety and compliance standards, including OSHA 29CFR 1910.138 for hand and arm protection and the City of Lakeland's safety policies. Required documentation for submission includes a vendor questionnaire, pricing proposal, a notarized Human Trafficking Affidavit, and a signed Indemnification Agreement. Additionally, contractors must maintain insurance with AM Best ratings of at least A and name the City of Lakeland as an additional insured. Contract administration requires that work be scheduled two weeks in advance and that completed work reports be emailed to the Contract Administrator. Invoices must be submitted on company letterhead within 30 days of service, including the LE work order and purchase order numbers, and must be delivered both in hard copy to Accounts Payable and electronically to the Contract Administrator. The contractor is also required to designate a Quality Control Inspector to ensure all treatments meet the specified quality standards.